Erika Darbro, PT, DPT, PRPC
Erika Darbro, PT, DPT, PRPC
City: Chicago, IL, USA
Visit types: Office/Hospital
Spoken languages: English
Interpreting services for other languages: No
I take a holistic approach to treating patients with endometriosis. I start with education and provide resources for patients to understand their condition better. I use a variety of hands-on methods, such as visceral manipulation, myofascial release externally and internally as appropriate, therapeutic cupping, dry needling, vagus nerve upregulation, yoga-based stretching, and mobility.
Dr. Fadel Azer
Dr. Fadel Azer, Endometriosis Specialist
City: Lisle, IL, USA
Philosophy of Endometriosis Care: I believe that the etiology of endometriosis is complex and multifactorial involving genetic, hormonal, immune, and environmental components. For most patients, I find a positive family history of the disease or one of its symptoms. While retrograde menstruation may initiate superficial endometriosis, deep endometriosis appears to have different mechanisms. Unlike superficial lesions, deep nodular lesions are not typically shed during menstruation, suggesting alternative theories such as coelomic metaplasia, induction of cellular transformation, and the embryonic remnant theory may better explain their origin. Genetic, hormonal, and environmental influences also contribute to the progression of both superficial and deep
What type of surgery do you perform for endometriosis?: Excision
Medication: Given the unique circumstances of each patient, I customize my treatment strategy accordingly. I offer a range of hormonal contraceptive options, including the Mirena IUD, oral contraceptive pills (OCPs), and Depo-Provera. Medications are provided before, during (such as inserting a Mirena or Kyleena IUD post-excision surgery while the patient is still under anesthesia, particularly for younger patients or those aiming for fertility), and after surgery. While I typically refrain from routinely suggesting GnRH agonists or antagonists, I may contemplate their use in certain instances, particularly for addressing persistent postoperative pain.
Approach to Persistent Pain After Surgery: Preparation for managing postoperative persistent pain begins during preoperative consultations. I conduct thorough assessments, including detailed medical histories and comprehensive physical exams, along with pelvic pain evaluations to explore potential conditions like spastic pelvic floor syndrome, interstitial cystitis, and irritable bowel syndrome. When central sensitization is suspected, I collaborate with a team comprising pelvic floor physical therapists, pelvic pain specialists, sex therapists, and behavioral therapists. I prescribe muscle relaxants to address pelvic floor spasms and provide treatment for interstitial cystitis or IBS through medications and lifestyle adjustments. In cases of suspected central sensitization, SSRIs may be prescribed. Additionally, I may consider GnRH agonists or antagonists for persistent postoperative pain management in specific scenarios.
Rebekah Wolinetz,PT, DPT, WCS
Visit types: Office/Hospital
Spoken languages: English
Interpreting services for other languages: Yes
What you should know about me:
When treating patients with endometriosis, I take a holistic approach including things such as myofascial release, stretching, visceral mobilization, dry needling, cupping, and diet counseling and/or referral to a dietitian who specializes in women’s health
Shayna Montello,PT, DPT
Visit types: Office/Hospital
Spoken languages: English
Interpreting services for other languages: No
What you should know about me:
I believe in a hollistic approach to physical therapy. I treat beyond a diagnosis and make sure people are comfortable and a part of their healing process. I typically utilize visceral mobilization, myofasical release, cupping, dry needling, stretches/exercises and referrals to functional medicine doctors.
